(a) Investment and expenses not used and useful in the ordinary course. The following investments and expenses are presumed not used and useful (and thus unreasonable):

(1) Personal expenses, including but not limited to personal expenses for food and beverages, housing, such as rent or mortgages, vehicles for personal use, and personal travel;

(2) Tangible property not logically related or necessary to offering voice or broadband services;

(3) Political contributions;

(4) Membership fees and dues in social, service and recreational, or athletic clubs or organizations;

(5) Penalties or fines for statutory or regulatory violations; and

(6) Penalties or fees for late payments on debt, loans, or other payments.

(b) Non-customary investments and expenses. Unless customary for similarly situated companies, the following investments and expenses are presumed not used and useful (and thus unreasonable):

(1) Personal benefits, such as gifts, housing allowances, and childcare, that are not part of taxable compensation;

(2) Artwork and other objects that possess aesthetic value that are displayed in the workplace;

(3) Aircraft, watercraft, and off-road vehicles used for work and work-related purposes;

(4) Cafeterias and dining facilities;

(5) Charitable donations;

(6) Entertainment;

(7) Food and beverage expenses for work and work-related travel;

(8) Membership fees and dues associated with professional organizations;

(9) Scholarships; and

(10) Sponsorships of conferences or community events.


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